Job Description for a FedEx Package Handler

Written by cassie damewood

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(Justin Sullivan/Getty Images News/Getty Images)

People depend on package delivery services like FedEx to transport parcels all over the world for business and personal reasons. Every package that goes through the company has to be weighed, sorted and loaded onto some sort of vehicle to reach its destination. The people who do all that work for FedEx are called package handlers.

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Skill Requirements

A FedEx package handler has to have good listening and analytical skills to comprehend and apply oral instructions given to him by his supervisor. Some instructions are written, so a package handler has to have good reading comprehension skills. Since most work is done in a team environment, he has to have interpersonal social skills and be able to work well with variety of personality types.

Job Duties

The main job duty is to load and unload packages and parcels on and off trucks and planes. She typically receives instructions from her supervisor at the beginning of her work shift and is expected to complete the assigned tasks in a certain time frame. As she performs her job, she is required to follow policies and procedures regarding the handling and stacking of the boxes to keep them and their contents intact and unharmed. She must keep records of completed jobs and report any cargo discrepancies to her superiors.

Work Conditions

Since FedEx does not provide package handlers with pallet jacks, forklifts or other material handling equipment, a package handler has to be physically fit enough to manually pull, push, carry and lift packages that weigh up to 45.4kg. If the package weighs between 45.4 and 68kg, he is required to enlist the help of a co-worker to manipulate it. The environment is usually a large, open warehouse with concrete floors. His job requires him to stand or walk for the duration of his shift. Work hours are erratic and overtime may be required during holiday seasons. FedEx workers are required to wear company-issued uniforms.

Educational Requirements

There are no educational requirements for this job. FedEx provides on-the-job training for this position. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and not be enrolled in high school. An applicant has to pass a criminal background check and, in some areas, submit to a drug test.

Salary and Advancement Opportunities

A significant number of full-time FedEx employees begin their careers as part-time workers and work their way up through the ranks. Growth opportunities are available in almost all areas including management, sales, recruitment and marketing. According to the salary and job information website glassdoor.com, the average 2009 annual salary for a full-time FedEx package handler in the United States was £14,270.